For a century now, Bali has been the subject of a beautiful mythology created by movies and music, but there are few factual accounts of its transformation from besieged peasant colony to booming tourist mecca.

It’s a tale begging to be told: a story of survival in the face of genocide, natural disaster, terrorism, cultural imperialism and corruption on a grand scale. This updated edition includes a new chapter on Jokowi and the Bali 9 executions.

Go behind the smiling face Bali has presented to generations of tourists and expats with Phil Jarratt, award-winning author of over 30 books including Surfing Australia: A Complete History of Surfboard Riding in Australia and That Summer at Boomerang.

‘… page-turning story of treachery, deceit, debauchery and wholesale slaughter, set against the idyllic backdrop of a paradise on earth.’ David Hill, Chairman, National Geographic Channels US

‘… a far more complex, contradictory and interesting picture than the standard journalistic cliché of paradise lost.’ The Sydney Morning Herald

‘… will make even Bali “regulars” rethink how well they know it. With a surfer’s humour and a journalist’s balance Jarratt explores Bali’s bloody history, pre-terrorism, its spiritual life and where Australia’s affinity with Bali began.’ Australian Associated Press

‘Should be compulsory reading for those who frequent the island.’ ReadingTree.com